Are Harry and Meghan at King Charles III’s coronation? Were Sussexes invited - Prince Harry booed by crowds

While all eyes were on King Charles and Queen Camilla at the royal coronation, there was still attention on the headline-grabbing Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.

It was confirmed prior to the historic event that Prince Harry would attend his father’s coronation. However, his wife Meghan was confirmed to stay in the United States with their two children on the day of the ceremony.

The Palace said in a brief statement on Wednesday (12 April): “Buckingham Palace is pleased to confirm that the Duke of Sussex will attend the Coronation Service at Westminster Abbey on 6th May. The Duchess of Sussex will remain in California with Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.”

Amid a rumoured feud between the couple and the royal family and shocking revelations made in Harry's tell-all book 'Spare', rumours have been rife over the relationship between the royal relatives. A Netflix documentary focused on the couple is also said to have opened up the rift, with accusations made

The royal-loving British public have not taken kindly to Harry and Meghan's antics since leaving their duties behind. Upon arriving for his father's coronation ceremony, Prince Harry was booed by the crowd gathered to celebrate the big day.

The Duke of Sussex’s attendance at the coronation will be the first time he will have been seen since the controversial memoir’s publication, and may spark some hope of reconciliation. However, the news that Meghan will be staying in the US will undoubtely see her accused of snubbing the monarch and her in-laws - although her supporters have pointed out that 6 May is the fourth birthday of her son, Archie.

Prince Harry and Meghan, who now live in California after their departure from the Royal Family, were reportedly contacted by email more than a month ago about attending the coronation. A spokesperson said at the time: “I can confirm The Duke has recently received email correspondence from His Majesty’s office regarding the coronation. An immediate decision on whether The Duke and Duchess will attend will not be disclosed by us at this time.”

According to the Daily Mail, Buckingham Palace staff were told to plan for their attendance before their confirmation, with the couple reportedly factored into all arrangements including cars, dining, and seating in Westminster Abbey.

It was also previously reported by the Daily Telegraph that Harry and Meghan would have a place have a place at King Charles’ historic ceremony if they wish to attend, with a source telling the newspaper: “All members of the family will be welcome.” Buckingham Palace declined to comment, but a source said of the King: “He loves both his sons.”

There was particular doubt raised over the Duke of Sussex’s attendance after King Charles evicted the couple from Frogmore Cottage in early March, and when reports emerged that Prince Harry was requesting a private apology from King Charles and Prince William before agreeing to attend the coronation.

Both Buckingham and Kensington Palace have remained silent over Harry’s allegations that William, the Prince of Wales, screamed at his brother and physically attacked him, and of Harry’s claims that he and Meghan were essentially thrown under the bus to protect other members of the Royal Family.

Prince Harry also accused his father of lying at the tense ‘Megxit’ crisis meeting with the Queen in January 2020. King Charles is said to be hurt by Harry and Meghan’s criticism of the royal family, but has not given up hope of building bridges, the Daily Express newspaper reported.

What role will Prince Harry play in the coronation?

As he is no longer a “working royal”, it is unclear exactly what part Prince Harry will play in the ceremony. During the late Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex did not take part in the royal appearance on the Buckingham Palace balcony.

Meanwhile, it is expected that Prince William will have a prominent role in the coronation.

Why is Meghan not attending the coronation?

There have been no details released concerning why Meghan is not attending the coronation - although there are already suggestions that she thought it better for her husband to attend alone, there is still tension, or she wanted to be in California for Archie’s fourth birthday.

Archewell, Prince Harry and Meghan’s charitable foundation, issued a near identical statement to Buckingham Palace. A spokesperson said: “The Duke of Sussex will attend the coronation service at Westminster Abbey on May 6th. The Duchess of Sussex will remain in California with Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.”